Constipation is a symptom of having fewer bowel movements than usual with a long or hard passing of stools. The frequency of bowel movements among healthy people varies greatly, ranging from three times a day to three a week. If more than 3 days pass without a bowel movement, the intestinal contents may harden, and stool may harden and be Discomfortful to pass. Constipation can occur at any age and most often affects women, children, and adults age 65 and over. Pregnant women ... complain of constipation, and it is a common problem following childbirth or surgery. Older people are more likely than younger people to have constipation.